USAF F-16C block 50 #93-0550 from the 55th EFS lands on October 16, 2018. Airmen from the 20th FW at Shaw AFB deployed to the 407th AEG in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. [USAF photo by SSgt. Dana J. Cable]

In the past, the squadron has deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom and many others in its time as a functioning fighter squadron.

"Our Shooters are on their way to an incredibly important fight, to ensure that people that seek to do our nation and our allies harm, never get that opportunity," said Col. Derek O’Malley, 20th Fighter Wing commander. "I know our Airmen are capable of executing any task that is thrown their way — not only because they are well trained, but because of the constant support they get at home from their families, friends, and the community. While our Airmen are taking the fight to the enemy, we’ve got to double our efforts to take care of their families."

Deploying with the Air Force’s premier suppression of enemy air defenses aircraft, the F-16CM Fighting Falcon, the units are putting mission success in their crosshairs.

Before the Airmen are allowed to deploy they must go through a processing line at the Chandler Deployment Processing Center.

In the line, deployers receive paperwork and speak with agencies, such as the 20th Comptroller Squadron finance office, 20th Fighter Wing chaplains and the 20th Force Support Squadron Airman & Family Readiness Center.

After Airmen completed the line, they received briefings about the conditions of their deployed location and the services offered to their families remaining stateside.

Following these briefings, Airmen disembarked in groups to an aircraft and prepared for the mission downrange.

F-16s assigned to the 55th EFS stand ready on October 16, 2018. Airmen from the 20th FW at Shaw AFB deployed to the 407th AEG in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. [USAF photo by SSgt. Dana J. Cable]